Adaptors and converters

Marie · Guru

Adaptors and converters

Michele Erdvig · Host

Marie,

If you are going to use appliances that are from the USA in Ireland you need a adapter and the plug. Here is a photo of a Irish socket and plug: http://www.glasson.com/nfo/electricity.htm The converter is so you don't fry your appliances. They are available at Wal Mart, Radio Shack, luggage stores, etc. Here is info about both: http://www.franzus.com/page/FOS/PROD/ELEC-CONV/TS-237AP-1

Michele

yesiree · Guru

If you're only planning to charge your digital camera batteries, then it might only require a plug adaptor. Your charger will be labled if it has a built in converter (most will say it accepts 110-240V).

If you're not sure or want to be on the safe side, get the whole converter. It might be worth your peace of mind.

irelandbound · Veteran Member

I want to be able to use my blow dryer, flat iron, water pik, etc.

Will the linked "all in one" unit work for me? Can you buy one converter with adapter and then attach a US power strip?

Michele Erdvig · Host

irelandbound,

Almost every B&B, guesthouse and hotel in Ireland has a blow dryer in the room or has one to loan you. Irons and ironing boards are on loan as well. Even if you have a converter American and other hair dryers don't behave properly in Ireland. Best to use the ones provided at your accommodations.

I have never used a power strip in Ireland. However, the converters can only handle a certain amount of wattage. If you plug everything into a strip you may well blow a fuse or a circut breaker.

You will have to check the wattage info associated with each converter to see if it will work with your appliances. There are very heavy duty ones you can purchase that cost a lot more. It just depends on what you have.

Michele

irelandbound · Veteran Member

Thanks Michele. I am sure you are right about the hair dryer being available in the hotel. However, the flat iron is for straigtening my hair (not clothing iron)and will not be available, as well as the water pik.

Any ideas for getting these items to work in Ireland - or should I just purchase these items when I get there? What stores are there in Killarney to purchase these types of things (like a Walmart type store)?

Michele Erdvig · Host

irelandbound,

You will be okay taking your water pik and straightening hair iron. I suggest you go to Wal Mart or Radio Shack and get a converter. Make note of the wattage of your items and read the specs on the converter to be sure it will be a good match. Buying converters in Ireland is much more expensive.

Michele

irelandbound · Veteran Member

Thank you Michele. In checking around, someone has now thrown out the word "transformer". It is funny how we take so many things for granted until we travel.

Would a transformer be better than a converter or are they basically the same thing?

I guess that I need to change my forum name from irelandbound to highmaintenance ...

Michele Erdvig · Host

irelandbound,

Transformer and converter are the same thing. However, you will need the three-prong plug also to acceess the Irish sockets or plugs. As you see there is more than one name for just about everything!

Michele